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I wanted to make mention of an interesting little book by Alan Rafkind called "The Second Life Of Judo". If you've ever been injured to the point of no longer being able to practice, you begin to understand something about the psychological and emotional implications. You also begin to understand some of the deeper lessons associated with the arts.

In Alan's words: "When a serious nerve injury sidelined my participation on the mat I found a special way to give back to the Judo community that has given me so much! As you all know- Judo teaches us so much more then good technique and Japanese words and how to defend ourselves....... Its lessons about life and 'growing up' are invaluable. The principles that are at the very core of playing Judo can enhance the quality of anyone's life no matter what difficult situation one finds themselves face to face with. This is the message of The Second Life Of Judo".

Here's a sample:

Quote:

"The judogi material is made from very strongly stitched fibers. The gi is made to endure years of pulling, twisting, gripping and friction. Consequently, the human skin is no match for a gi. When playing Judo, we are reminded of this difference over and over again, as we learn to quit trying to control our partner and their movements. A gi burn looks like a four-inch welt or abrasion on the skin. Resist your partner’s movements too much and you will get burnt; and if your partner is strong, you will bleed. A judogi burn goes away in a few days, and we get another chance to recognize the need to relax and move fluidly with our partner’s energy and weight". (pg. 13)